Colonial period from 1700-1780 (and the Federal Period from 1780-1820) typically follow the styles popular in Europe at the time: William and Mary, Queen Anne, Chippendale, and English Neo-Classical styles (Hepplewhite & Sharaton), however, the American versions of these styles were characteristically simplified.

Chenille can refer to a yarn with a soft fuzzy texture, items knitted entirely from such yarns, or items incorporating tufts of such yarn for decoration. Chenille can be made from cotton, wool, silk or rayon.